Species information

Category

Statistics

Length: 10cm
Tail: 10cm
Weight: 20g
Average lifespan: 1 year

Conservation status

Common.

When to see

January to December

About

As its name suggests, the house mouse thrives wherever there are people, particularly in farm buildings, warehouses, sheds and garages, although it is no longer a common resident of our homes. It eats grains, seeds, roots, fungi and insects, and can be a serious pest of grain stores. House mice construct a series of tunnels to live in. Females can have up to 10 litters a year of four to eight young.

How to identify

The house mouse is grey-brown, with large ears, a pointed snout and long, scaly tail. The similar wood mouse is browner and has larger ears and eyes relative to its size.

Distribution

Widespread.

Habitats

Did you know?

The house mouse is the ancestor of the domestic mouse, which has been bred as a pet and a laboratory subject.

How people can help

The Wildlife Trusts work closely with farmers and landowners to ensure that our wildlife is protected and to promote wildlife-friendly practices. By working together, we can create Living Landscapes: networks of habitats stretching across town and country that allow wildlife to move about freely and people to enjoy the benefits of nature. Support this greener vision for the future by joining your local Wildlife Trust.